Kaal Bhairav Mandir Varanasi Timings, Aarti & Darshan Guide
Kaal Bhairav Mandir Varanasi Timings, Aarti & Darshan Details
Introduction
Among the many sacred temples of Varanasi, the Kaal Bhairav Mandir holds a special place of power and protection. Dedicated to Lord Kaal Bhairav, a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva, this temple is considered the guardian of Kashi (Varanasi). Devotees believe that no pilgrimage to Varanasi is complete without visiting Kaal Bhairav, known as the Kotwal of Kashi — the city’s divine protector.
In this detailed article, you’ll find complete information on Kaal Bhairav Mandir Varanasi timings, aarti schedule, darshan hours, and spiritual significance — all based on verified local sources and temple rituals.
Table of Contents
1. About Kaal Bhairav Mandir, Varanasi
The Kaal Bhairav Temple is located in the heart of Varanasi, near Visheshwarganj, about 1 km from Kashi Vishwanath Temple. It is one of the oldest temples in the city, dating back several centuries.
Lord Kaal Bhairav, a fierce form of Shiva, is worshipped here as the guardian deity who grants protection, punishes evil, and blesses devotees with courage and clarity.
The temple’s sanctum houses a unique idol — a silver-faced deity wearing a garland of skulls, symbolizing the destruction of ego and ignorance.
2. Mythological Significance
In Hindu mythology, Kaal Bhairav was born from Lord Shiva’s anger when Brahma disrespected him. Kaal Bhairav cut off one of Brahma’s five heads, symbolizing the annihilation of pride and falsehood.
It is believed that Lord Shiva appointed Kaal Bhairav as the Kotwal (chief guardian) of Varanasi to protect devotees and maintain cosmic order.
According to tradition, no one can stay in Kashi without the permission of Kaal Bhairav — making this temple an essential stop for every pilgrim.
Devotees believe that worshipping Kaal Bhairav removes negativity, protects against evil spirits, and grants moksha (liberation).
3. Kaal Bhairav Mandir Varanasi Timings (Updated)
| Day | Temple Opening Time | Temple Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Monday to Sunday | 5:00 AM | 1:30 PM |
| Monday to Sunday | 3:00 PM | 10:00 PM |
4. Aarti Schedule & Daily Rituals
| Aarti / Ritual | Time |
|---|---|
| Mangala Aarti (Morning) | 5:00 AM – 5:30 AM |
| Shringar Aarti (Decoration) | 7:00 AM – 8:00 AM |
| Bhog Aarti (Offering of food) | 12:00 PM |
| Sandhya Aarti (Evening prayer) | 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
| Shayan Aarti (Night closure) | 9:30 PM – 10:00 PM |
5. Entry Fees, Dress Code & Guidelines
- Entry Fee: Free for all devotees.
- Dress Code: Traditional and modest clothing is recommended. Men usually wear dhoti or kurta-pajama, while women prefer sarees or salwar suits.
- Photography: Usually restricted inside the sanctum; allowed in outer courtyards.
- Footwear: Must be removed before entering temple premises.
- Offerings: Black sesame oil, flowers, betel leaves, and alcohol (a symbolic offering) are traditional.
6. How to Reach Kaal Bhairav Mandir
- Location: Visheshwarganj, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh – 221001
- Distance:
1 km from Kashi Vishwanath Temple
5 km from Varanasi Junction Railway Station
20 km from Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport
Transportation:
- Auto-rickshaw / E-rickshaw: Easily available throughout the city.
- Cab / Ola: Direct route from any major point in Varanasi.
- On Foot: Many devotees prefer walking from the Vishwanath temple as part of their pilgrimage route.
7. Rituals and Offerings
Worship at Kaal Bhairav Mandir involves traditional rituals:
- Lighting mustard oil lamps to invoke blessings.
- Offering black til (sesame seeds) for removal of obstacles.
- Pouring oil over the idol as a symbol of purification.
- Offering liquor — a practice unique to Bhairav temples, symbolizing the surrender of ego and indulgence.
Devotees often tie red or black threads on the temple gates seeking protection from evil forces.
8. Temple Architecture & Idol Description
The temple features Nagara-style architecture with a tall spire and beautifully carved pillars. The sanctum’s main deity is Kaal Bhairav, represented by a silver-faced idol with fiery eyes, wearing a garland of skulls and serpents.
The surrounding shrines are dedicated to Batuk Bhairav, Maa Kali, and Lord Hanuman. Despite its compact size, the temple’s spiritual intensity and sacred aura draw countless visitors daily.
9. Best Time to Visit Kaal Bhairav Temple
The temple is open year-round, but certain times are considered especially auspicious:
- Kaalashtami — the 8th day of the waning moon each month, dedicated to Kaal Bhairav.
- Mahashivratri — massive celebrations and night-long prayers.
- Sundays — believed to please Kaal Bhairav the most.
Best Visiting Hours: Early morning (5:00 AM–7:00 AM) or evening (6:00 PM–8:00 PM) to avoid crowds and heat.
10. Nearby Temples & Attractions
If you are visiting Kaal Bhairav Mandir, several other sacred sites are located nearby:
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple (1 km)
- Annapurna Devi Temple
- Batuk Bhairav Temple
- Manikarnika Ghat
- Dashashwamedh Ghat
- Tulsi Manas Mandir
- Durga Kund Temple
You can cover all these in a half-day pilgrimage circuit across old Varanasi.
11. FAQs on Kaal Bhairav Mandir Varanasi Timings
1. What are the Kaal Bhairav Mandir Varanasi timings?
The temple opens daily at 5:00 AM and closes at 10:00 PM, with a lunch break from 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM. Darshan and puja are available throughout these hours.
2. What time is Kaal Bhairav Mandir aarti?
- Morning Aarti: 5:00 AM – 5:30 AM
- Evening Aarti: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Special aartis are held on Sundays and during Kaalashtami.
3. Is Kaal Bhairav Mandir open now?
Yes, the temple remains open every day from early morning till late evening. During festivals, timings may extend slightly to accommodate devotees.
4. What is the darshan timing at Kaal Bhairav Temple Varanasi?
Darshan is available from 5:00 AM to 1:30 PM, and again from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM daily.
5. What is the significance of Kaal Bhairav in Varanasi?
Kaal Bhairav is believed to be the guardian deity of Kashi, protecting devotees and granting them liberation from fear, sins, and death.
6. Can we visit Kaal Bhairav Temple and Kashi Vishwanath Temple together?
Yes, both temples are close to each other. Most pilgrims visit Kaal Bhairav Mandir first, then proceed to Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
7. What should I offer to Lord Kaal Bhairav?
Devotees usually offer black sesame oil, flowers, betel leaves, and alcohol (symbolic offering). These offerings are believed to remove obstacles and grant protection.
8. Is there any entry fee for darshan?
No, entry to Kaal Bhairav Temple is completely free for all devotees. Donations are voluntary.
9. What is the best day to visit Kaal Bhairav Mandir?
Sunday and Kaalashtami (8th day of Krishna Paksha) are the most auspicious days to visit and perform special pujas.
10. How far is Kaal Bhairav Temple from Varanasi Junction?
The temple is located about 5 km from Varanasi Junction and takes around 15–20 minutes by auto or cab.
